The Emerging Film Composer: An Introduction to the People, Problems, and Psychology of the Film Music Business Paperback – February 2, 2007

I have been working/writing professionally in the studio environment as a composer and pianist for about 3 years now, and I'll have to say that Richard Bellis has certainly put together a wonderful collection of information within this quick and easy to read book! I have to say that I laughed out loud during half of the book because almost every single "problem" scenario he mentions has already come up in my own work one way or another.... Even within the short amount of time I've actually been out working! The book is a testament to understanding that you will deal with problem solving throughout your entire career, and you are you are giving yourself a leg up by educating yourself about these scenarios! Whether it's studio problems, dealing with producers, or trying to cover your ass when things get chaotic ... The foundation of how to deal with these things are in this book! It's a wonderful read, and it has great value to the professional as well as those who are just starting out! Thanks for such a well written book Mr. Bellis!

First off, I liked the book. It was an easy read. Very practical, light, and enjoyable. I like that. I like to get through a book and be on to another, with the feeling of accomplishment. The writer states his views but is not too opinionated. I like that too.For somebody who is brand new to the business, I think this is a wonderful book and would highly recommend.Personally, I find most of what is in this book to be common sense and very basic. So, I don't feel that I got a TON from it. BUT I think that this book could help others more than me and I DID still learn some things. And It is always good to hear it from someone else who has much more experience in the business.With the digital age changing so many things, I would be interested in reading an updated book from this author in the future.Thanks for the good read, Richard.

Many of you believe it's a tell all book or almost boring book to barely put your hands too. To me, all the details the award winning composer talks in this book speaks for itself.I myself love music, grew up listening to music, play the trumpet and all.I can't say much about this book I'm reading, I think it shows some missing points they don't tell you from other books, classes or schools. Once you observe and do your homework, you surely will tell the difference.

The music business is a tough one to break into, even for those that know what they are doing. Narrowing that down to film composition is even more difficult. I read this book cover to cover in one day because I found it absolutely fascinating. Anyone who is even thinking about a career in this industry should get a copy immediately.Not only does Richard Bellis tell us the REAL DEAL of what goes on in the industry but even helps with time management, contracts and what is REALLY expected by the pros and does so in a light-hearted and enjoyable way. There is nothing left uncovered on the business side of the business.By all means, learn all you can about composition, creativity, sound and recording. It is essential. But without this knowledge and insight, you'll have a tough time getting in the door!

Great book that tells how it really is to work in the film business as a composer. As an educator I see many students who dream of this career choice but come to the realization it takes more perseverance than they thought. This book lays it out there to what lies ahead of you if you choose this path. Those that have the burning desire to do what is required will be ever the wiser for reading Richard's book.

As a student of music and film composition, I found this book to be very informative. This book is a magnifying glass to the root of the business. Mr. Bellis makes every aspect very clear to the most definitive detail. This book will be a continuous tool for myself and my development of which I will definitely recommend. Thank You. See you soon.

This was a really really helpful book!! It taught me a lot of stuff that I didn't know before, and things that "the emerging film composer" needs to know. If you are looking at being a film composer, or are curious about what goes on in the film music industry, you should definately read this book. It provides lots of very valuable, and interesting information. Amazing, and extremely helpful!

This book is a must-read for the aspiring film composer. It's a very practical book about how the business works, where you fit in to it, and where everyone fits in around you. While it doesn't go to the length of contract excerpts and spotting lists, it has everything you need to begin to understand the larger business around you, and the easiest ways to thrive in that environment.

A good depth of knowledge and wisdom from a well known leading composer and educator.Richard's book is well known and often referred to in film composer circles throughout the world.His extensive experience and knowledge of both the business of film making and of composing music for it, has made for a concise but compact manual which I often refer to.Yes, its a little out of date, but its principles are largely unchanged, though many of the processes (copyrighting, orchestration etc) are now much more straighforward with the help of technologial advances. Alas these have and continue to shrink the industry due to shrinking production costs, brought about by producers and studios expecting much more value for $less, and coupled with the education system's marketing making us believe that there is a growing demand for more and more film composers and engineers - only because they want to generate more $income and because the studios want great productions for $zero investment.Anyway, I digress. Basically Richard's book is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the business.

I was recommended this book by a friend. It's a highly informative look at the bits of being a pro musician nobody really knows how to address, how much is your time worth? what to charge? working relationships etc. I found it a quick, enjoyable (Bellis has a great sense of humour) and an informative read. I've been a pro musician for almost 10 years now and I still found plenty to take away from this book. I'd highly recommend it. Although you'll probably discover you've been selling yourself short. I know I have.

A really compelling read, this book is full of useful information delivered with humour and insight that I fully recommend for anyone trying to forge a career in film music.

This book won't teach you how to compose but rather teach you of the people you will meet in this industry and how to work with them.

interesante porque habla de las personas, los tratos personales y profesionales que tendrás que manejar, cuidar y promover si quieres tener éxito en el mundo de musica para el cine. Por un poco de suerte he podido crear hueco en el mundo de BSO y ya he hecho 3 largometrajes importantes. las experiencias descritas aquí me corresponde muy bien a mi experiencia, la realidad practica y humana del proceso, hubiera gustado leerlo hace un par de años! recomendable.